The Darkness Say Goodbye to Bassist Poullain

British bassists have a hard life. First Snow Patrol gives its bass man the axe, and now the Darkness has booted Frankie Poullain out of the band. This doesn't look like the end of the Darkness though, for the hair metal enthusiasts are currently in the studio working away on their sophomore effort.

The reason Poullain wasn't invited to join the others to make the follow-up to 2003's Permission To Land is rather unclear. The statement released through the Darkness' website (www.thedarknessrock.com) briefly and cryptically reads,

"With immediate effect, bass player Frankie Poullain is no longer a member of the Darkness. Remaining members have cited musical differences as the reason for his departure. A replacement will be announced within coming months."

The Darkness's forthcoming album will likely hit shelves later in 2005ówith any luck, in the fall. The remaining three members are working with producer Roy Thomas Baker (Devo, Cheap Trick, the Cars) in the studio where Queen recorded "Bohemian Rhapsody."